Social Anxiety and Friends

[Puppies123]

I have been in a slump recently and I'm not sure what to do. Since I was little I have always known that I am a shy person overall and I have hated myself for it. Now that I'm older, I've done some research and I think I have social anxiety and it kills me everyday. I haven't gone to any therapist or any help because they are very expensive and I for sure know that my parents cannot afford to spend some more money. I have talked to them briefly about how I feel but mental health is sort of a topic that's pushed aside as not important. I'm a junior in high school and my anxiety has gotten so bad that I can barely function. In class I barely speak, even if I know an answer to a question I have never participated because I know I will be judged. I see people in my grade hanging out and having fun together and I just feel left out all the time and even when I try to socialize I always feel like I'm ignored and no one really cares about me because I'm too afraid to speak. I really don't like my life right now and I've tried telling myself that this feeling will go away but i think it's getting worse and more painful. It's just hard right now and I know I need help but I can't get it because conversations with my parents go nowhere and I get so sad every time I see people hang out on social media since I want to be included but I think that everyone will think I'm weird and judge me. In shops, restaurants or anywhere in public I do not talk to anyone and avoid social interactions as much as possible. I know this is a downhill slope and I don't think I can survive with this in college or the real word with jobs. Please help me because I'm desperately in need of advice!!

[Puppies123]

Also this has plummeted my self confidence and I just don't want to be me anymore.

[Hidden]

Personally I would discuss your problem with your GP, Therapy may help you come to terns with your problem

I really need to know how old you are I do also feel you are living in the USA, we are located in the UK.

You could try Relaxation techniques, they recommend Mindfulness and you can purchase books that explain how you learn various techniques to calm you. Breathing Techniques can also help especially when feeling unsettled around others

Personally I feel medications are a later consideration, all they would do would be to affect concentration, if at school or college you need that edge to learn and remember so you can pass your tests and examination

Try to talk again to your parents, Like you I can be insular and like my own company due to past problems and concerns.

Also I would advise Diversions and Hobbies may help, sometimes going to Organisations or Night-class to learn an interest can also help you meet people with a same interest. You could also attend Youth Clubs where again you can interact with people around you

Generally when in teens can be self aware and self lacking in confidence generally getting older, you will interact as a matter of course

BOB

[MAS_Nurse]

Hello Puppies123, we are sorry to hear that you are having a difficult time. Can you please tell us how old you are?

It is good that you are talking to us here. I know you have done some research and feel that you may have social anxiety. You say you are a junior in high school. Are there any support or counselling services which can be provided by your school?

Bob has given you some very good and helpful advice. You may also find the attached link helpful

teenlineonline.org/

Best Wishes

MAS Nurse & Moderator

[Puppies123 in reply to MAS_Nurse]

I'm 16 and we do have councilors but I have no time to talk to them because we can only set up appointments during school meaning I will have to miss classes which I don't want to do.